The Slow Down

Waking slowly, drinking caramel creamed coffee while wrapped in the heavy lilac comforter, lounging against the broad chest of my husband. The falling snow envelops the dogwood, ivy and grass. Apple wood freshly cut last spring crackles in the fireplace, and the warm fragrant air wafts through the room. This is where pleasure lies.

I believe in the slow down. Settling into the small space after work and obligation.

Later I sit in the overstuffed leather chair; warm air drifting from the grates on the floor ruffles the blankets around me. The cat purrs as I, absent mindedly, scratch behind her ears; dogs lay sleeping and curled at my bare feet. In this space, everything stops. The bills paid, work finished, house content. Simply sitting close to the man I love, watching the flurry in flakes outside the window.

Winter brings more down time, darkness comes early and home is soothing. I indulge.

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This week’s essay

As half of the magic act Penn and Teller, Penn Jillette enjoys challenging his audiences with the unconventional. In stating his personal credo, Jillette finds liberation in believing there is no God. Click here to read his essay.